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Research Support Assistant

  • Job
    Full-time
    Entry & Junior Level
  • Research & Development
    Healthcare
  • Preston

AI generated summary

  • You need a 2:1 degree in Psychology or related field, knowledge of research methods, experience in mental health, and excellent communication skills. Diversity in applications is encouraged.
  • You will support research by recruiting participants, conducting assessments, managing data, and ensuring smooth trial operations while collaborating with various teams across the region.

Requirements

  • You must hold a degree level qualification in Psychology (2:1 or above) or a related discipline, and have knowledge of quantitative and qualitative research methods, including an understanding of research governance, ethics, and data management.
  • You will need to be confident in engaging with participants who may be experiencing mental health difficulties, conducting structured assessments, and using digital tools for research.
  • Experience working within mental health services, research teams, or with under represented communities would be a strong advantage.
  • Please ensure you meet all essential criteria before applying.
  • We are looking for an enthusiastic, compassionate, and self directed individual who is committed to delivering high quality, inclusive mental health research.
  • The role requires sensitivity, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work independently while contributing to a supportive and values driven team.
  • We particularly welcome applications from people from diverse ethnic communities, LGBTQIA+ applicants, disabled applicants, neurodivergent applicants, and those with lived experience of mental health difficulties, in line with our commitment to inclusive and anti racist research practice.
  • LSCFT values diversity and inclusion, recognising that talent from varied backgrounds creates a flexible, creative, and effective workforce.
  • We actively challenge discrimination and welcome applications from all, regardless of age, disability (including those with experience of accessing or caring for someone who has accessed mental health or learning disability services), ethnicity, gender, religion, belief, or sexual orientation.
  • Our aim is to reflect the communities we serve, so we particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups.
  • If you’d like to discuss your application, please ask.
  • We also welcome individuals with lived experience relevant to the role or service area, as your insight brings authenticity to our services.
  • LSCFT support flexible working, we believe that a positive work/life balance benefits NHS employees through improved health and wellbeing.
  • We would consider working patterns such as term time, part time, compressed hours and flexi-time.

Responsibilities

  • The post holder will join a committed team of clinical and research staff who are passionate about improving mental health care through applied research.
  • You will work alongside clinicians, academic collaborators, lived experience experts, and community partners to support participant recruitment, undertake baseline and follow up assessments, manage research data, and contribute to the smooth running of the trial.
  • The post will be based at The Lantern Centre, Preston with travel across the region to meet participants and clinical teams.

FAQs

What is the primary focus of the Research Support Assistant position?

The primary focus of the Research Support Assistant position is to work closely with the research team and the University of Manchester on delivering the NIHR funded EASE Trial, which evaluates the effectiveness of EMDR for people experiencing early psychosis and distressing life experiences.

What qualifications are required for this position?

Candidates must hold a degree-level qualification in Psychology (2:1 or above) or a related discipline.

Is experience in mental health services necessary for this role?

While not mandatory, experience working within mental health services, research teams, or with underrepresented communities would be a strong advantage.

What does the role involve regarding participant interaction?

The role involves supporting participant recruitment, conducting structured assessments, and engaging with participants who may be experiencing mental health difficulties.

Where will the Research Support Assistant be based?

The position will be based at The Lantern Centre in Preston, with travel required across the region to meet participants and clinical teams.

Is there a specific skill set required regarding research methods?

Yes, candidates should have knowledge of both quantitative and qualitative research methods, as well as an understanding of research governance, ethics, and data management.

Are there any specific communities that are encouraged to apply?

Yes, applications are particularly welcomed from diverse ethnic communities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, disabled individuals, neurodivergent individuals, and those with lived experience of mental health difficulties.

Does the organization support flexible working arrangements?

Yes, LSCFT supports flexible working arrangements, including options for term time, part-time, compressed hours, and flexi-time.

Who can I contact for more information about the role?

For further details or informal visits, you can contact Polly Bidwell, the Recruiting Manager, at polly.bidwell@lscft.nhs.uk.

What type of candidates are you looking for?

We are looking for enthusiastic, compassionate, and self-directed individuals committed to delivering high-quality and inclusive mental health research.

Supporting Health and Wellbeing

Science & Healthcare
Industry
5001-10,000
Employees
2002
Founded Year

Mission & Purpose

Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust provides mental health, learning disability, and substance misuse services across Lancashire and South Cumbria. Their mission is to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care to improve mental and emotional well-being. Their purpose is to support individuals in their recovery and promote mental health through integrated, compassionate care and community engagement.